SM-1 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM, LONG-LIVED INDUCED ACTIVITY BUILDUP DURING SM-1 CORE I LIFETIME TASK XVIII--PHASE I
The results of activity buildup studies in the SM-l performed during Core I lifetime are reported. Data are presented on the extent, nature, and mechanism of the buildup of long-lived gamma -emitting nuclides in the reactor primary system. Radiation levels after reactor shutdown are presented, as well as mathematical equations used to account for the observed activity levels. The data have shown that Co/sup 60/ is the major contributor to radiation levels in the SM-l. Co/sup 60/ activity arises from the cobalt in Haynes 25 alloy flux suppressors, and the cobalt impurity in stainless steel. After 35 months operation at an average power level of 55%, deposited Co/sup 60/ activity accounted for approximately 83% of the total radiation level (mr/hr) contributed by the long-lived gamma -emitting nuclides. The contribution of the primary coolant activity to the total radiation level is insignificant when compared to the contribution of the activity deposited on the walls of the system. The radiation level on the super-heater side of the steam generator was about l400 mr/ hr after 35 months of reactor operation. The percentages of /sup 60/b activity in the coolant and in the deposits were not the same. This indicates either that nuclides are depositing irreversibly on the surfaces of the system or that all nuclides are not exchanging at the same rate. The ratio of Co/sup 58//Co/sup 60/ in the deposits shows that a major fraction of the nuclides are irreversibly deposited. Mathematical equations derived during the course of work were used to predict the observed activity build-up on SM-1 primary system surfaces. Certain constants in the equations were obtained from the experimental data. Calculated values of activity levels based on the equations were in good agreement with the activity levels found on the primary system. The equations may be used to determine the effect of cobalt (or other impurities) on deposited activity. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Alco Products, Inc., Schenectady, N.Y.
- DOE Contract Number:
- AT(30-3)-326
- NSA Number:
- NSA-15-007078
- OSTI ID:
- 4119930
- Report Number(s):
- APAE-77
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Orig. Receipt Date: 31-DEC-61
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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